In the Western United States, cattle ranchers use a branding iron to place an identifying mark on livestock in their herd. This permanent stamping provides proof of ownership that leaves no room for debate. If cattle wander from the pasture, the symbol imprinted on their hide will protect them from poachers and help lead them back home.
Abraham willingly submitted to being branded as belonging to God Almighty through the act of circumcision. His obedience attested to his faith in God’s Word because he took action. By physically cutting away his foreskin, he was showing that his heart was fully surrendered to follow all of God’s commands.
His obedience was unhesitating. This man of faith was quick to respond and wasted no time to do what God said. Abraham took action on the same day and did not hem and haw in indecision about whether or not he should fully surrender.
Instead of making excuses, Abraham fully executed God’s directive. This 99-year-old man did not allow fear or doubt to hinder him from immediate obedience. He kept the Lord’s commands eagerly and without delay (Psalm 119:60).
His obedience was unrestricted. Abraham held nothing back from the Lord. Every male in his household was included. In faith, this follower believed that if he committed his entire future to the Lord and trusted Him, the Lord would act on his behalf (Psalm 37:5).
Abraham was unafraid of the potential personal discomfort of obedience. Circumcising every servant in his home at the same time opened up the possibility that the weakened warriors would stand defenseless if the enemy should attack in the days that followed. Instead of allowing “worse case scenarios” to keep him from moving forward in faith, this leader chose to believe God would be faithful to fulfill his promises and protect his people.
This external sign of devotion to God would have meant nothing had not Abraham turned from his sin with a repentant heart and chosen to heed God’s Word. His confession of faith allowed God to cleanse his heart and create a new spirit in this once stubbornly resistant man. His resolve to respond to God wholeheartedly helped transform Abraham’s character. When we place our lives completely in God’s hands, He purifies our desires.
Circumcision in the Old Testament was a picture of how you and I are called to fully surrender our hearts to the Lord today. Because Jesus died on the cross for our sins, we have been bought with the price of His precious sacrifice, and we no longer belong to ourselves. When we place our total trust in Christ, the Holy Spirit seals our hearts and identifies us as a child of God.
The Spirit of God brands our heart, and we now live to say no to sin and to worship our Savior. Wherever God has placed you in this season, you can choose to courageously obey Him without hesitation. Hold nothing back and let the world know you belong to your Heavenly Father.
